GABA Transporters (GATs)

GABA transporters (GATs) are membrane proteins responsible for the reuptake of GABA, the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system. They play a crucial role in regulating extracellular GABA concentrations, thereby controlling synaptic transmission and maintaining neural circuit balance. There are four main plasma membrane GABA transporter subtypes: GAT1 (SLC6A1), GAT2 (SLC6A13), GAT3 (SLC6A11), and BGT1 (SLC6A12). These transporters clear released GABA from the synaptic cleft, terminating inhibitory signaling and maintaining homeostasis. Dysfunction or reversal of GAT function can contribute to neurological disorders like epilepsy. Inhibitors targeting these transporters, such as tiagabine, are used to modulate inhibition.

Other names

GABA uptake transportersgamma-aminobutyric acid transportersSLC6A1SLC6A13SLC6A11SLC6A12

Inhibition of GABA reuptake, increasing extracellular GABA concentration.